Martha D. Saunders feels more than fortunate to have met and continues to meet the long list of incredible people throughout her career and education that she has. One of these people is none other than her old schoolmate, and good friend, Jimmy Buffett. Though she isn’t what one might call a “Parrothead”, wearing a Hawaiian shirt and grass skirt with margarita in hand traveling the band tour, Martha D. Saunders has more than a few favorite things about her old friend and his public career, which include, but are not limited to the following:

The lyrics: There are few songwriters out there who can really capture humor and relaxation quite like Jimmy Buffett. Consider Cheeseburger in Paradise for one or any of the songs on Margaritaville.

The atmosphere that he inspires with his music: Even not taking into account the cult-like following of the parrotheads-similar to “deadheads for the Grateful Dead-Jimmy Buffett songs and manner inspires crowds and crowds to just have a drink and relax, party but in a laid-back way. Everyone has to have a time when they can escape the world and just do that: listen to his music and unwind.

It’s all happy: Few musicians these days just sing to make people happy. These songs all make you happy. His voice makes you happy. The melody and familiarity makes you happy. We need happiness wherever we can get it, and Jimmy Buffett is a pioneer in this respect: spreading happiness.

The lyrics are wise: Though most people who don’t get Jimmy Buffett’s music consider his lyrics to be all and exclusively about drinking and partying, the man offers some wise sentiments on life. One of my favorite quotes from one of Jimmy Buffett’s songs is: “Breathe in, breathe out-move on”.

Jimmy Buffett’s music is known for whisking away the listener and giving them an escape from the stresses of everyday life, which is why it will continue to be some of Martha D. Saunders’ favorite music to listen to on a sunny afternoon.